Ronald Edward Gilbert

Born on January 7, 1929, in Altus, Oklahoma, Ron was the son of Leon and Alice Gilbert. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dr. L.N. Gilbert; and his sisters, Erma Ruth McClung and Opal Smith.

Ron is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nellyne “Nell” Gilbert; his children, Rhonda Spear, Ronald Gilbert, Jr. (Patricia), and Lori Davies (Richard). He was a proud grandfather to Kimberly Patton (Robby), Megan Peach (Danny), and Lindsay Heidaker (Cole); and a great-grandfather to Riley, Olivia, and Sophia Patton, and Owen, Jacob, and Makenna Peach. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces, Norma Dell Smith, Faith O’Brien, Ruth Ann Moore, Melba Lynn Case, and his nephews, Gilbert McClung, and Dr. James Gilbert.

A lifelong learner and accomplished scholar, Ron graduated from Sunset High School in Dallas before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Nazarene University. He later earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin.

Throughout his distinguished career, Ron contributed significantly to the field of chemical research and development, holding leadership roles with several major companies, including Dow Chemical, Spencer Chemical, and Chevron-Gulf Oil Chemicals. He retired as Vice President of Technology from the Westlake Group. He held more than 40 patents related to the petrochemical industry.

Ron held both a private and commercial pilot’s license and loved flying his Piper Seneca. In his retirement years, he found great joy in spending time at the airport with his flying friends and his granddaughter, Lindsay.

Ron’s life was centered on his faith, his family, and his friendships. His presence, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.